Friday, July 30, 2010

Fighting Back, Thou Shalt Not Steal, -and- The Bare Facts


Fighting Back - homeowner shoots man accused of breaking in
Thou Shalt Not Steal - store clerk evokes Jesus to talk man out of robbery
The Bare Facts - Dell tech support takes Sacramento woman's private photographs, builds Web site

On this day in history: July 30, 1916 - German agents set fire to the U.S. Army munitions depot on Black Tom Island in New York Harbor. At 2:08 AM the depot explodes, throwing shrapnel more than a mile, breaking thousands of Manhattan windows, and causing structural damage to the Statue of Liberty.

Born on this day in history: July 30, 1974 - Hilary Swank (1974 - ) Lincoln, Nebraska, actress Hilary Swank got her big break with an award-winning performance in Boys Don't Cry, followed by a critically acclaimed role in Clint Eastwood's Million Dollar Baby, which launched her to A-list acting status. Her starring role in the Amelia Earhart biopic, Amelia (2009), also earned the actress high praise.

Scripture of the Day: [Jesus said] "You are the light of the world. Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14-16

Video of the Day: Verizon Droid X Wi-Fi Hot Spot





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Sprint to roll out Android 2.2 to HTC EVO starting August 3
YouTube increases upload video length to 15 minutes
Can your mobile calls be intercepted? This tool can tell

Laura's Birthday!




Thursday, July 29, 2010

Love Thy Neighbor, Homeland Insecurity, -and- Animal Kingdom


Love Thy Neighbor - judge sentences feuding neighbors to monthly potluck dinners
Homeland Insecurity - agents easily get U.S. passports with bogus information
Animal Kingdom - police gun down rampaging pregnant cow at California State Fair

On this day in history: July 29, 1921 - Adolf Hitler is selected as leader of the National Socialist Party.

Born on this day in history: July 29, 1966 - Martina McBride (1966 - ) Kansas-born country singer Martina McBride got her big break as a sideliner to Tim McGraw. Her second album The Way That I Am (1993) popped to the top of the charts, and her amazing vocal range led to awards for Best Female Vocalist with the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music and the American Music Awards.

Scripture of the Day: I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have preserved my life. — Psalm 119:93

Video of the Day: Dodge Avenger Commercial - "Smoke on the Water"





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Lawsuit says iPad overheats, is "unusable" in direct sunlight
Apple investigating iOS 4 problems on iPhone 3G
Slovenia IDs, arrests "Mariposa" botnet creator
My Little Pony Android wallpaper accesses vital user info

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

They Drive Among Us, Lost Boy, -and- The Sky Is Falling!


They Drive Among Us - self-proclaimed witch told a traffic cop she was not subject to earthly laws as she was "a being from another world."
Lost Boy - 9-year-old boy forgotten at Chicago airport
The Sky Is Falling! - world-record hailstone in South Dakota—two pounds

On this day in history: July 28, 1957 - A C-124 transport plane carrying three nuclear weapons jettisons its precious cargo into the Atlantic, somewhere east of Delaware and New Jersey. The bombs are never recovered.

Born on this day in history: July 28, 1929 - Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929 - 1994) Born Jacqueline Lee Bouvier, Jackie Onassis married John F. Kennedy in 1953. As first lady, she promoted the arts, history and high style. The couple had two children, Caroline and John. After Kennedy's death, she married Greek magnate Aristotle Onassis. In later years, Onassis lived quietly and worked in publishing.

Scripture of the Day: I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. — Philippians 3:14

Video of the Day: Dodge Tomahawk - submitted by Darin





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Apple responds to iPhone jailbreaking decision
Fake Firefox update page pushes malware
Firefox 4 gets second beta release
Google Maps for Mobile 4.4 adds "Places icon to Android phones
Facebook launches safety page
A reality check on Jobs' 3G Network complaint

Wi-Fi Hot Spot with Motorola Droid X
Last evening, I rooted my Motorola Droid X. This allowed me to install several applications that require root access. The most notable of these is Wi-Fi Tether. This application allows the Droid X to act as a wireless Wi-Fi Hot Spot—allowing up to five laptops and other portable devices to connect to the Internet!

I configured Wi-Fi Hot Spot on my Droid X and connected to it with my HP laptop. The performance was impressive.



Tuesday, July 27, 2010

No Parking, The Kid's Alright, -and- Make a Run for the Border


No Parking - car plunges through barrier, lands on roof of house after driver fails to set handbrake
The Kid's Alright - teen falls 16 stories, now up and about
Make a Run for the Border - illegals flee Arizona ahead of crackdown

On this day in history: July 27, 2002 - A Sukhoi SU-27 fighter crashes and explodes at an air show in the Ukraine, killing 78 and injuring more than 100 others. It is the worst airshow crash in history. The two pilots ejected and survived.

Born on this day in history: July 27, 1943 - Peggy Fleming (1948 - ) Born in San Jose, California, ice skater Peggy Fleming won the world championship three times, plus an Olympic gold in 1968. She went on to become an ABC-TV commentator.

Scripture of the Day: Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. - Hebrews 12:1

Video of the Day: Zeus and Thor at Play #1





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Apple's Droid X "death grip" claim: Bogus
Wi-Fi WPA2 security hole found
Copyright Office: Jailbreaking an iPhone is fair use
What the iPhone jailbreak ruling means (FAQ)
Google Apps gets a government version
Standard set for universal wireless charger

Monday, July 26, 2010

Fighting Back, Dressed for Success, -and- To Protect and Serve


Fighting Back - Woman 2, thugs 0 in Oklahoma home invasion
Dressed for Success - German cop gets extra pay for donning uniform
To Protect and Serve - prisoners escape after guards put dummy in watch tower

On this day in history: July 26, 1826 - Schoolmaster Cayetano Ripoll is hanged in Valencia, after uttering his last words: "I die reconciled to God and to man." He is the last person executed by the Spanish Inquisition.

Born on this day in history: July 26, 1943 Mick Jagger (1943 - ) Born in Dartford, England, rock singer Mick Jagger attended the London School of Economics, but left to form The Rolling Stones. In 1962, the group released its first single. Popular for three decades, Jagger wrote and sang many of the Stones' hits, including "I Can't Get No Satisfaction" (1965). He was knighted in 2002.

Scripture of the Day: Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. - Hebrews 11:1

Video of the Day: Golf Ball Hitting Steel in Super Slow Motion - sbumitted by Frank





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Motorola's Jha: Android will dominate mobile devices
Secunia: Apple software has the most holes
Plastic-bottle boat completes voyage across Pacific

Friday, July 23, 2010

Fighting Back, Armed and Dangerous, -and- Stupid Criminals


Fighting Back - Vietnam vet kills intruder to protect disabled daughter
Armed and Dangerous - blinding laser beam newest police tool
Stupid Criminals - parolee nabbed asking officers for directions

On this day in history: July 23, 1996 - Harry Morgan, Col. Potter on TV's "M*A*S*H," is arraigned on charges of spousal abuse. LAPD officers responding to a 911 call at the couple's Brentwood, California home had discovered his wife Barbara bruised and bleeding from her face.

Born on this day in history: July 23, 1971 - Alison Krauss (1971 - ) Decatur, Illinois, musician Alison Krauss had her own band by the age of 10, and by 13 she was fiddle champion. During her fiddle competitions she met her band-mates for the group Union Station. Between her solo and group efforts, Krauss has released 11 albums and won 26 Grammys—the most awards for a female artist in the ceremony s history.

Scripture of the Day: Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." - Matthew 19:14

Video of the Day: Ari Vatanen Pike's Peak - submitted by Frank





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Safari auto-fill exploit can reveal user data
OnStar phone apps to remote-start more cars
Dell solves motherboard malware problem
Captured Russian spy maintains active Facebook account

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Don't Squeeze the Charmin, Drive My Car, -and- What'll You Have?


Don't Squeeze the Charmin - budget woes cause city to stop buying toilet paper
Drive My Car - Glendora teen swaps old cell phone for Porsche on Craigslist
What'll You Have? - man breakes into shuttered bar, sells drinks for four days

On this day in history: July 22, 1994 - In court, O.J. pleads "absolutely, 100% not guilty" of savagely killing his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman.

Born on this day in history: July 22, 1964 - John Leguizamo ( 1964 - ) Born in Bogota, Columbia, actor John Leguizamo started out as a stand-up comedian playing the New York nightclub circuit. He eventually landed gigs in films such as Casualties of War (1989), Carlito's Way (1993), and Moulin Rouge (2001). More recently, he provided the voice of Sid the Sloth in the family-friendly Ice Age franchise.

Scripture of the Day: "What about you?" Jesus asked. "Who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." - Matthew 16:15-16

Video of the Day: EVILXF Supercharged Ford Van at Summernats 23 - submitted by Darin





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Droid X root achieved
The 70,000 Bloggery users could get their blogs back
Netflix profits up as it shifts into streaming
FCC now defines broadband as 4Mbits/sec
Microsoft issues "fix it" for .LNK shortcut hole
Bicyclist allegedly steals iPhone during GPS demo
Blend portrait, landscape pages in Word docs

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

What a Deal!, The Fat of the Land, -and- Going to Pot


What a Deal! - thrift store manager's laptop accidentally sold for $5.00
The Fat of the Land - 600-pound woman wants to hit 1,000 pounds
Going to Pot - Oakland, CA approves marijuana farming

On this day in history: July 21, 1981 - Mark David Chapman is sentenced to 20 years in prison for the shooting of John Lennon. His only response is to read a passage from a J.D. Salinger novel. Chapman currently works as a janitor in Attica State Prison.

Born on this day in history: July 21, 1899 - Ernest Hemingway (1899 - 1961) Born in Oak Park, Illinois, writer Ernst Hemingway served in an ambulance corps in World War I. Later based in Paris, he was part of Gertrude Stein's expatriate circle. His first novel, The Sun Also Rises (1926) gained instant acclaim and A Farewell to Arms (1929) put him in the front ranks. In 1927, Hemingway settled in the U.S.

Scripture of the Day: I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws. - Psalm 119:30

Video of the Day: Extreme Skydiving - submitted by Darin





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Microsoft announces beta of Next Microsoft Security Essentials
Google Images gets revamped interface, more relevant results
Microsoft unveils Kinect pricing, bundles

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Animal Kingdom, They're Here!, -and- Me Tarzan


Animal Kingdom - parachuting donkey shocks Russian beachgoers
They're Here! - man hit by six meteorites is being "targeted by aliens"
Me Tarzan - Mexico arrests man with 18 monkeys around his waist

On this day in history: July 20, 1969 - On live television, the world watches as Neil Armstrong steps foot on the Moon.

Born on this day in history: July 20, 1947 - Carlos Santana (1947 - ) Born in Autlán de Navarro, Mexico, musician Carlos Santana began playing guitar at 8. In 1966, he formed the Santana Blues Band, and their debut album went triple platinum. Santana earned his first Grammy in 1987. A decade later, Santana won Grammys in every category, tying Michael Jackson's 1983 record.

Scripture of the Day: If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. — 1 John 1:7

Video of the Day: Jay Leno and Craig Jackson pick up their Dodge Challengers





Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






Technology News
Apple iTunes 9.2.1 fixes one critical hole
Will there be a Windows Vista Service Pack 3?
Sharp breaks the 100GB Blu-ray barrier
Adobe Reader to block attacks with sandbox technology

Motorola Droid X - Android 2.2 Update
The update from Android OS 2.1 to 2.2 went verysmoothly and very quickly this morning. A message appeared on my Droid X screen saying that an upgrade was available. I tapped "Download." I was then presented with a message that the update was downloaded. I tapped "Install," and the update installed, and the Droid X restarted.

Key features of Android OS 2.2 are:

  • Improved battery charging status indicator.
  • Smoother transition for camera and camcorder functions.
  • Redesign of weather widget icons.
  • Faster Exchange ActiveSync® email loading.
  • Streamlined organization of newly downloaded applications.
  • Organized favorite contacts by call count.
  • Updated Bluetooth® connection for enhanced video
    sharing experience.
  • Coordinated date and time across phone displays.
  • Cleaner looking status bar for GPS symbol.
  • Improved sync capabilities for 3G Mobile Hotspot.
  • Faster Visual Voice Mail loading.
  • Take advantage of the enhanced, preloaded My Verizon application.
  • Preloaded Amazon Kindle® application lets you read Kindle books on
    your AndroidTM phone, including thousands of free books
  • Monday, July 19, 2010

    Reunited, Weapons of Choice, -and- Speeders


    Reunited - 108-year-old woman back together with 38-year-old husband after year-long separation
    Weapons of Choice - judge rips sheriff for rejecting gun permit
    Speeders - teen charged after crash of horse and buggy in chase

    On this day in history: July 19, 1692 - Five Salem witches are hanged for the crime of witchcraft, based primarily on the accusations of little girls who were bewitched. Eventually, the village executes a total of 20 witches.

    Born on this day in history: July 19, 1834 - Edgar Degas (1834 - 1917) Born in Paris, artist Edgar Degas was associated with the French Impressionists. He is famous for his mastery of drawing the human figure in motion. His works include "Dancer Lacing her Shoe" and "Jockeys in the Rain."

    Scripture of the Day: [The Lord says] "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." — Isaiah 41:10

    Video of the Day: White Dodge Challenger SRT8 - Return to Vanishing Point





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






    Technology News
    Vintage Steve Jobs tackles iPhone 4 issues and the critics
    Rivals hit back at Apple over iPhone 4 "death grip" claims
    iPhone 4 refunds don't apply to AT&T contracts after 30 days
    iPhone 4 defense prompts new debate
    Subaru slaps in-car Wi-Fi into its 2011 Outback
    Mystery shrouds closures of blog, forum platforms

    Friday, July 16, 2010

    No Honor Among Thieves, Don't Tase Me Bro!, -and- Can You Hear Me Now?


    No Honor Among Thieves - Phoenix home invader shot by robbers already in home
    Don't Tase Me Bro! - cop tasers anther cop in off-duty spat
    Can You Hear Me Now? - Apple engineer told Jobs iPhone antenna might cut calls

    On this day in history: July 16, 1998 - An inattentive deputy sheriff in Lafayette, IN, drives his automobile into the stolen tombstone of actor James Dean. The 400 pound tombstone, which was stolen two days prior from Dean's gravesite at Park Cemetery (and later abandoned on a country road), rips the transmission out of the deputy's vehicle

    Born on this day in history: July 16, 1967 - Will Ferrell (1967 - ) Born in Irvine, California, the son of Righteous Brothers keyboard player Lee Ferrell, actor-comedian Will Ferrell began comedy shtick in high school. He joined The Groundlings, a Los Angeles improv troupe, and, in 1995, the cast of "Saturday Night Live." Ferrell has since moved into films.

    Scripture of the Day: In Christ, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and
    authority. - Colossians 2:9-10

    Video of the Day: New Apple Friend Bar Gives Customers Someone To Talk At About Mac





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    Six ways to fix your iPhone 4's reception problems
    Apple releases iOS 4.0.1, makes iPhone signal bars bigger
    Schumer asks Apple for solution on iPhone 4 reception issue
    What we know about the iPhone 4's antenna (FAQ)
    Apple knew of iPhone issue
    iPhone owners report iOS 4.0.1 installation errors
    Android Market: 70,000 apps, 1 billion downloads

    Best Buy Is Loathesome!
    In late June, Chris pointed me to a news article that stated Best Buy was taking pre-orders on the Motorola Droid X, which was due to be available on July 15th. I contacted Best Buy in Chico and was assured I had pre-order numbers 2 and 3. In early July, I read that Best Buy had discontinued pre-orders. Shortly thereafter, I called to ensure that our pre-orders were still active. I was told they could not find a record of them and that they were not accepting pre-orders at that time. The following week, I called and was told they were accepting pre-orders. Laura went there and placed deposits on two Droid X units. We were given pre-order numbers 12 and 13. July 15th: Best Buy told Laura that they received an insufficient supply of Droid X phones to satisfy pre-orders. We held pre-orders number 12 and number 13. They are unable to tell me when these will be filled. They are expecting more phones next week but indicated that they cannot assure us that we will receive phones then. Laura asked whether Verizon might have Droid X units in stock. Best Buy assured Laura that Verizon had no inventory of Droid X units. On a whim I called Verizon: I spoke with Stephanie at Verizon in the 20th Street Mall in Chico. Stephanie held two Droid X units for Laura. Laura scampered to Verizon and acquired the phones. Stephanie set up our Gmail accounts, moved our phone numbers from AT&T, closed our AT&T accounts, and copied all our contacts from our iPhones to our Droid X phones.

    Motorola Droid X
    I received my Motorola Droid X yesterday. (See above article for details of this adventure.) I had intended to spend several hours with my Droid X and write an article comparing it and the Apple iPhone that I have been using for the last 18 months. Following five minutes of using the Droid X, I determined such a comparison would be unfair and unrealistic. Analogous to that comparison would be the comparison of Laura's new Dodge Challenger SE RS to the Toyota Yaris she previously owned. Similarly, it would be ludicrous to compare Verizon with AT&T—particularly since Verizon recently installed a new tower here in Corning. Instead, I shall simply give a report of the Droid X.

    Thanks to Android's open ecosystem, the Droid X has countless options for customization. Much of the functionality comes from the ever-expanding Android Market, which features an uncensored and ever-expanding array of programs that let one make the most of one's Android experience. Currently, there are over 70,000 apps available, and there have been over 1 billion downloads.

    The Android OS can navigate through directories, copy or move files, delete files—practically anything one could do within a PC-based file manager.

    The Droid X has a large 4.3-inch screen. This is significant: One can see more content on Web pages, more video—more of everything. With the large screen, the onscreen keyboard is larger and considerably easier to see and use. The Droid X's screen is not just large: it is also brilliant and crisp. It is really enjoyable watching videos on it, reading MySpace and Facebook status updates from little on-screen widgets, checking email and browsing the Web. Colors look bright, and text is easy to read.

    The Droid X can easily be used as a portable Wi-Fi Hot Spot and give multiple computers wireless access to the Internet.

    With the Droid X, one can download whatever one wishes.

    The Droid X offers Swype—a superb alternative keyboard that lets one quickly swipe one's finger across a keyboard, spelling words, rather than having to tap. It is amazingly fast and amazingly accurate.

    The Droid X has an 8-megapixel camera capable of shooting HD video. The phone is also equipped with three microphones. Background noise cancelling while recording video is effectuated by the microphone system. Videos may be sent directly from the Droid X to YouTube.

    The Droid X has Android 2.1 installed. Android 2.2 will be released for the Droid X early next month. Among other updates and enhancements, Android 2.2 will provide full support for Adobe Flash.

    I deal with technology daily, and impressing me is not a simple matter. The Droid X impresses me greatly!

    Thursday, July 15, 2010

    Fighting Back, Sir Have You Been Drinking?, -and- Stupid Criminals


    Fighting Back - homeowner shoots at fake FBI agents
    Sir Have You Been Drinking? - drunk man rides crocodile, gets bitten
    Stupid Criminals - man posts bail with counterfeit bills

    On this day in history: July 15, 1997 - Fashion designer Gianni Versace is assassinated outside his Miami Beach home

    Born on this day in history: July 15, 1961 - Forest Whitaker (1961 - ) After college quarterback Forest Whitaker was sidelined with an injury, he began studying opera and drama. His debut in Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982) led to a series of critically acclaimed roles, including Platoon (1986) and Good Morning, Vietnam (1987). His performance in 2006's The Last King of Scotland earned Whitaker an Academy Award.

    Scripture of the Day: Get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. - James 1:21

    Video of the Day: Tomorrow (NOW Today!) - Droid X Release - submitted by Admiral





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    Report: Apple holding friday press conference on iPhone 4
    Apple's iOS 4.1 reportedly fixes iPhone signal indicators
    Motorola Droid X now available on Verizon
    What to do with passwords once you create them
    Mozilla disables password-stealing Firefox add-on
    Velocity Micro readies three Android tablets
    Five great Firefox privacy add-ons

    Motorola Droid X Released Today!
    I received an email from Admiral this morning. He sent it while standing in line at Verizon, waiting to purchase a Motorola Droid X. He was first in line, and there were ten behind him. It was 7 AM.

    Laura and I hold pre-orders 12 and 13 at Best Buy. Laura will journey there and acquire our phones today.

    The wait is nearing its end!

    YES!

    Wednesday, July 14, 2010

    The Law of the Land, Am I Talking to Me?, -and- The Fat of the Land


    The Law of the Land - district attorney arrested, refuses to charge himself
    Am I Talking to Me? - woman jailed for texting threats to herself
    The Fat of the Land - Illinois considers "obesity tax"

    On this day in history: July 14, 1881 - In the Sumner, New Mexico home of his friend Pete Maxwell, notorious outlaw Billy the Kid steps into a darkened bedroom and is shot dead by sheriff Pat Garrett. Billy's last words are "¿Quién es?" (Who is it?)

    Born on this day in history: July 14, 1912 - Woody Guthrie (1912 - 1967) Born in Okemah, Oklahoma, folk musician and songwriter Woody Guthrie lived a hobo's life until becoming a radio personality in Los Angeles in 1937. He wrote or adapted more than 1000 songs, including "This Land is Your Land" (1940).

    Scripture of the Day: [Jesus said] "If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love." — John 15:10

    Video of the Day: Ninja Cat - submitted by Chris





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    Fox News launches Android app
    Spinmeisters sound off on Apple's communications breakdown
    Analyst: iPhone 4 recall would cost $1.5 billion
    Microsoft discloses four patches, three critical

    But one day separates me from my Motorola Droid X! Tomorrow, Best Buy in Chico shall call Laura and alert her that our Droid X phones await us! It is entirely possible that I shall be unable to await Laura's arrival at home tomorrow afternoon. I may find it requisite to journey to Chico and snatch up my Droid X, clasp it to my breast, and pet it lovingly while removing all traces of Apple software from Hal!




    Tuesday, July 13, 2010

    Long and Winding Road, Let Them Eat Cake, -and- Breaking the Law


    Long and Winding Road - photographs of world's most spectacular roads
    Let Them Eat Cake - undocumented immigrants in Utah lose government food aid
    Breaking the Law - Oakland cops will not respond to "minor crimes"

    On this day in history: July 13, 1994 - Tonya Harding's ex-husband, Jeff Gillooly, is sentenced in Portland, Oregon, to two years in prison for his role in the attack on Nancy Kerrigan. He serves six months.

    Born on this day in history: July 13, 1942 - Harrison Ford (1942 - ) Born in Chicago, Illinois, actor Harrison Ford served a long apprenticeship before achieving stardom in Star Wars (1977) and Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981). Later films enhanced his reputation. Ford received the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award in 2000.

    Scripture of the Day: God exalted him [Jesus] to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every other name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. — Philippians 2:9-11

    Video of the Day: Laura's 2010 Dodge Challenger SE RS





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






    Technology News
    Time for an iPhone 4 recall?
    Is Apple hiding "Consumer Reports" discussion threads?
    "Consumer Reports" won't recommend iPhone 4
    Microsoft connects Facebook, Windows Live to Outlook




    Monday, July 12, 2010

    Wash Day, The Star Treatment, -and- Who Are You?


    Wash Day - man holds mother hostage because she won't iron his clothes
    The Star Treatment - Switzerland won't extradite Polanski to U.S.
    Who Are You? - fingerprints required at California skate park

    On this day in history: July 12, 1843 - Mormon numero uno Joseph Smith discloses a divine revelation instructing his followers to take multiple wives, in what the LDS Church calls "plural marriage" but everyone else calls polygamy. The Mormons are ultimately forced to disclaim the practice in September 1890.

    Born on this day in history: July 12, 1937 - Bill Cosby (1937 - ) Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, comedian, writer and producer Bill Cosby began performing at New York's Gaslight Café in 1962. He was the first African-American actor to star in a weekly TV dramatic series, "I Spy" (1965-8), and later headlined "The Bill Cosby Show"
    (1969-71). In 2003, Cosby was honored with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.

    Scripture of the Day: Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" — Matthew 4:4

    Video of the Day: Dodge Challenger "Freedom" Commercial





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.






    Technology News
    Malfunctioning iPhone 4.0 burns user, USB charging cord
    Apple/AT&T monopoly suit goes class action
    How to use YouTube's video editor




    Friday, July 09, 2010

    The Kids Are Alright, The Fats of Life, -and- Liar LIar


    The Kids Are Alright - there's a new sheriff in town—he's 8, and he's ticked
    The Fats of Life - world's weirdest diets
    Liar Liar - FDA cafeteria serves drinks labeled untruthfully

    On this day in history: July 9, 1997 - Mike Tyson banned from boxing for one year, and fined $3M for biting Evander Holyfield's ear off in a mysterious cajun ritual.

    Born on this day in history: July 9, 1956 - Tom Hanks (1956 - ) Born in California, actor and director Tom Hanks began in community theater and guest roles on TV shows. His break came in Big (1988). Success followed with Sleepless in Seattle, Forrest Gump and Oscar-winning performances. In 2002, Hanks became the youngest actor ever to receive the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award.

    Scripture of the Day: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. — Ephesians 3:20-21

    Video of the Day: 10 Cutest Cat Moments





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.




    Technology News
    US CyberCom logo secret cracked
    Windows XP SP2 support ends Tuesday
    Facebook to close its Gift Shop


    Mr. Challenger!

























    Thursday, July 08, 2010

    Never Too Old, Good Heavens!, -and- Look Who's Talking


    Never Too Old - 93-year-old gangster convicted of racketeering, conspiracy
    Good Heavens! - Blble class officially okayed for California school
    Look Who's Talking - fish talk to each other, researcher finds

    On this day in history: July 8, 1922 - Tod Browning's groundbreaking horror movie Freaks, featuring genuine carnival sideshow performers, premieres at the Rialto theater in New York. The film opens to critical outrage, and is later banned by the British government for 30 years.

    Born on this day in history: July 8, 1961 - Toby Keith (1961 - ) Musician. Born Toby Keith Covel on July 8, 1961 in Clinton, Oklahoma. Raised in Oklahoma City, Keith started playing music at a young age after being inspired by the musicians who worked in his grandmother's supper club.

    Scripture of the Day: I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. - Psalm 138:2

    Video of the Day: The Rat Killer - submitted by Darin





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News

    AT&T, Alcatel software glitch slows 3G Network, iPhone 4
    Hands-on with Firefox 4 Beta 1
    Mozilla releases Firefox 4 Beta 1
    Germany takes legal action against Germany



    Wednesday, July 07, 2010

    Come and Get It!, Got Milk?, -and- Going to Pot


    Come and Get It! - woman gives away neighbor's stuff on Craigslist
    Got Milk? - San Francisco bans sugary drinks on city property
    Going to Pot - San Francisco sets guidelines for marijuana brownies

    On this day in history: July 7, 1665 - King Charles II and his entourage flee London, a city suffering the ravages of the black plague. At this point, about 2,000 Londoners are dying weekly.

    Born on this day in history: July 7, 1940 - Ringo Starr (1940 - ) Liverpool, England, drummer Ringo Starr became part of music history when he replaced Pete Best in the group The Beatles in 1962. After the group split in 1970, Starr produced solo albums such as Sentimental Journey (1970), Bad Boy (1978), and Liverpool 8 (2008). In 2010, Starr will be given his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

    Scripture of the Day: As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. - Psalm 18:30

    Video of the Day: Motorola Droid X





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    Report: LG crafting Android tablet
    bluetooth 4.0 spec adopted; testing can begin
    Best Buy to offer wireless broadband
    Netflix to stream some first-run movies
    iPhone developer banned over fraudulent practices
    Microsoft investigating new Windows flaw

    Motorola Droid X Pre-orders
    We have pre-orders for Motorola Droid X phones at Best Buy in Chico. The phones are due to arrive on the 15th of this month. I am very eager for their arrival!

    Laura's New Dodge Challenger SE RS
    Laura stopped at Chuck Patterson Auto World yesterday afternoon to obtain brochures for Dodge Challenger and Toyota Camry. She test-drove a Dodge Challenger SE RS. She declared that she had no desire to test-drive a Camry. Driving the Challenger convinced her that it was the car she desired.

    It is a beautiful car. Laura took these photographs with her iPhone. I shall photograph this beautiful beast soon with my Nikon D3 and make the images available here.












    Tuesday, July 06, 2010

    Hot Dog, Speeders, -and- Catch Them If You Can


    Hot Dog - eating champ leaves NY jail after fracas
    Speeders - speeding drivers given choice of kids' quiz instead of fine
    Catch Them If You Can - Interpol asks Web surfers to help catch fugitives

    On this day in history: July 6, 1415 - Jan Hus is burned at the stake for various heresies by the Council of Constance. Among other things, Hus had incited the citizens of Prague to protest against antipope John XXIII and his policy of granting indulgences.

    Born on this day in history: July 6, 1935 - Dalai Lama (1935 - ) Born Tenzin Gyatso in Taktser, China, the 14th Dalai Lama is the spiritual head of Tibet. After the 1959 Tibetan uprising, he was forced into exile, settling in Punjab, India. In 1989, the Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.

    Scripture of the Day: Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. (Spoken by Jesus.) — Matthew 24:35

    Video of the Day: Rule the Air





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    iPhone 4 reception bars: A distorted reality
    Apple dumps iPhone 4 restocking fee
    Microsof looking into critical bug in Windows XP, Windows 2000

    Friday, July 02, 2010

    Hic!, Could It Be?, -and- Surf's Up


    Hic! - Scots unleash world's strongest beer
    Could It Be? - cell-phone radiation contributing to decline in bee population
    Surf's Up - Finland makes broadband a "legal right"

    On this day in history: July 2, 1937 - Attempting to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the globe in an airplane, Amelia Earhart disappears over the Pacific with her navigator, Fred Noonan.

    Born on this day in history: July 2, 1908 - Thurgood Marshall (1908 - 1993) Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Thurgood Marshall began working with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1934. His successful arguments before the Supreme Court earned him the role of chief counsel for the NAACP. His historic win in the Brown v. Board of Education case became a landmark victory for civil rights.

    Scripture of the Day: The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? "I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." — Jeremiah 17:9-10

    Video of the Day: Sarge





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    Apple blames antenna issue on software
    iPhone upgrade gives woman someone else's photos
    Air Force gadget steals power from enemy power lines
    "Spider Boy" spins his own wall-climbing device

    Waiting for Our Droid X Phones
    While awaiting the delivery of our Motorola Droid X phones, humor often brings a brief respite to the tedium of the wait.






    The Giant Olive
    Yesterday, I photographed the Giant Olive—a local attraction located at a crossroads along the Corning-to-Chico route—for a news agency. It is an interesting structure.



    Thursday, July 01, 2010

    Heat of the Moment, Homeland Insecurity, -and- Seasick


    Heat of the Moment - Prof: Carbon sequestration "as bad as nuclear waste"
    Homeland Insecurity - FBI: Spies hid secret messages on public Web sites
    Seasick - Mediterranean yacht trip leaves woman ill for nine years

    On this day in history: July 1, 1996 - The body of Margeaux Hemingway is found in her Santa Monica, California apartment after the actress apparently overdosed on Phenobarbital.

    Born on this day in history: July 1, 1961 - Princess Diana (1961 - 1997) Born at Sandringham, England, Lady Diana Spencer married Charles, the Prince of Wales in 1981, and had two sons, Prince William (1982) and Prince Harry (1984). The royal couple divorced in 1996. Interested in social concerns, Princess Diana ignited worldwide media attention. She died in a car accident in Paris.

    Scripture of the Day: By the grace given me I say to everyone of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober
    judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. - Romans 12:3

    Video of the Day: PhotoSpeak Android App Review





    Imagine my surprise when I encountered this scene at Walmart while journeying to my office this morning! Click to enlarge.





    Technology News
    iPhone 4 lawsuits pop up: let the games begin!
    Dell accused of shipping desktops known to be faulty
    Why Facebook privacy settings don't matter
    YouTube declines to choose sides in HTML5, Flash debate
    Experts: Android, iPhone security different but matched
    Droid X ad hits iPhone 4 with antenna jibe
    Mom rails at Google over Street View pic of naked toddler